The Karnataka government has announced a three-day mourning period, from December 10 to 12, following the passing of veteran leader and former Chief Minister SM Krishna at the age of 92. Krishna, known for his transformative role in establishing Bengaluru as India’s Silicon Valley, died early on Tuesday. His last rites will be held with full state honours in his native Mandya district on Wednesday.
State Mourning Protocols
During the mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on government buildings across Karnataka, and all official entertainment events have been suspended, according to an official notification.
Schools and Colleges Closed
In honour of the late leader, the Karnataka government has declared a public holiday for all government offices, schools, colleges, and aided educational institutions on December 11 and 12.
Banks to Remain Open
While educational institutions will remain closed, banks in Karnataka are expected to operate as usual. Unless a directive is issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), no official bank holiday has been announced for December 11.
Tributes Pour In
SM Krishna’s contributions to Karnataka and the nation have been widely recognized. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Krishna as a “remarkable leader admired across diverse sections of society.” Other prominent leaders, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, also paid their respects.
The Karnataka assembly, currently in session in Belagavi, observed a moment of silence to honour the statesman. Leaders from across party lines lauded him as a “gentleman politician” and a “statesman.”
Legacy of SM Krishna
Born on May 1, 1932, in Somanahalli, Mandya district, SM Krishna served in various key positions throughout his career. He was the Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, the Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008, and India’s External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012 during the UPA II government. In 2023, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour.
In 2017, Krishna joined the BJP, ending his nearly five-decade association with the Congress party. He retired from active politics on January 7, 2023.
Sources By Agencies
